Recharging during deadline season

Recharging during deadline season

Deadline season has come around again! Often this time of year can feel a little overwhelming and many students worry about having to balance their studies with recharging and enjoying the winter break. Here’s my insight on getting into the new year and ensuring a smooth transition of returning to university. I hope my daily routine provides some ideas of how to stay on top of work while finding time to relax.

My AM routine

Once I wake up and make my bed, I put on a cosy outfit. It’s tempting during these cold mornings to stay in my pyjamas all day, but I find that I feel less motivated this way, so I compromise with fluffy socks and my warmest jumper.

Next, I open my laptop. I like to make a brief study plan so that my day has some structure and I know what work I will be focussing on.

Do this a way that suits your working style. For me, the plan consists of short bullet points reminding me of the tasks I need to complete that day.

I set up a little study space on my bed, with my course books, lecture notes and a cup of coffee.

(It always seems like the minute my laptop is set up my cat comes and flops beside it!)

Revisiting my course materials and rewatching my lecture recordings on Blackboard makes studying at home much easier, as I still have the content in front of me.

I also find that listening to music is a great way for me to concentrate, as I don’t have the same quiet at home as I would at the uni library.

Taking regular breaks

After an hour or so of working on my assignments, I have a break and make sure to eat something.

Regular breaks mean I have time to relax and step away from my work so I can come back refreshed. During this break, I make myself a hot chocolate (with cream of course) and watch YouTube for a while.

With deadlines fast approaching, its easy to put yourself under too much pressure to meet them; I think it’s important to reward yourself for your achievements throughout the day, however small they may seem.

I make sure to spend plenty of time catching up with my family. Living away in halls means I don't get to see them as often as I'd like. I know many students will be back home, and the winter break is always a good time to meet friends and family and enjoy some quality time. 

My PM routine

I carry on in the early evening, planning essays and doing research for some modules, while going over assignment briefs. I like to burn incense and candles to make the room feel cosier. I also make sure I have plenty of snacks to keep me motivated!

As the evening progresses, I start winding down and putting away my books and study materials. I shower before changing into my pyjamas, and then I put on Netflix and catch up on some of my favourite shows.

Time management and work/life balance definitely takes a while to master (I know I’m not there yet!), and at this time of year, when deadlines are fast approaching and the workload feels stressful, making sure you take care of yourself is essential. I hope this advice helps and that everybody has a fantastic new year!